Painted Cloth Accoutrements

[vuduchicken]

I'm trying to construct some painted cloth accoutrements. There was a fine line available at www.homespunwares.com but the guy who owns the site had to move in july of '08 as a result he's not taking any more orders.

My question is if anyone knows anything about the details of painted leather accoutrements (such as cartridge boxes, cap pouches,bayonet scabbards or waist belts).

Because I don't seem to be able to find a kepi made of jean wool with a painted cloth brim anywhere. I'd like to try to make one of those as well. If anyone knows any details about these also, I would be much oblidged if they would share such info.

Thanx in advance
Frank Charles

[Charles Heath]

Having responded to a mention of painted cloth in mass quantities this morning. I wonder how many reenactorlings still use the wonderful, but all to brief "Potter's Patented Haversack & Knapsack Paint, 1864" article by Steve Osman. It's a good thing to keep around, and it is one of the few I keep in an archival quality sleeve. This article also includes the final finishing step most makers neglect. Well worth reading it is.

[Ross L. Lamoreaux]

There are many reputable vendors making painted cloth brim kepis to include, but not limited to, Greg Starbuck, Dirty Billy, Don Smith (TMD), NJS, and Joe Blunt

[D.W. Scalf]

If I'm not mistaken, Kiev Thomaston(Traveling Man's Emporium), is doing kepi's with painted cloth brims. Also check out the Dirty Back Boys. They might not have it on their list of items, but they will work with you on almost anything. I don't think they're on the approved vendor list, but do sell things thru many who are. I've just ordered a painted cloth accoutrement set from them. The set was highly recommended by a fellow forum member who purchased one, and their prices are great. Eric is a pleasant guy to do business with.

D.W. Scalf

[lthull3rdla]

Ive just gotten through ordering a painted cloth set from Butch Meyers and his work is first rate for sure. Pricey, but worth it.

Ronnie

[NYCivilWar]

"Potter's Patented Haversack & Knapsack Paint, 1864" [/I]article by Steve Osman. It's a good thing to keep around, and it is one of the few I keep in an archival quality sleeve. This article also includes the final finishing step most makers neglect. Well worth reading it is.

Could you take this out of your archival sleeve to share with us? Or, is there anywhere online that has the article?

[Gallinipper]

Just to throw another name out for you, a fine gent by the name of Leighton Young used to produce some right nice painted accouterments based on surviving Williams Brands specimens, like those seen in the CS EOG. When I've spoken with him in the past, he's always been outgoing and he might be willing to "talk shop" with you regarding dimensions, construction details, etc.

Here's some contact info, from an older website:
Leighton Young
10800 Alpharetta Highway
St. 200, L-5
Roswell, GA
(404) 604-9478
Painted cloth accoutrements. Atlanta, Augusta, Baton Rouge and French accoutrements. Variant bayonet scabbard ID'd to Chickamauga.

I believe the boys in the Atlanta area know him pretty well, and one of them may be able to hook you up with him if he's still making them and/or any of the info above has changed. Good luck.

[onemoreb]

Missouri Boot and Shoe just sent out a painted cloth cartridge box and cap pouch that were really first rate. They had wood finnials that were perfectly matched to originals. They are not on the web site yet, but if you contact Mr. Serio via e-mail or telephone I'm sure he can assist you.

[malachi]

I assure you all that I have read and read and read on this one, but am still unclear on instructions. I am about to begin work on a painted cloth valise. I have read every recipe on painting cloth I can find on this site and others. While I know about sizing both sides and painting one side with my lamp black mixture, I continually read about a second mixture of clear linseed oil, mineral spirits, and Japan dryer to be applied. Is that to be applied over the painted side, or on the unpainted side ??? Please guys, throw me a bone on this one, I am confused.
John Greg Tucker

[Forrestcavalryman]

Painted side.